Members of Ilocos Norte’s Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board) have approved a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to create the Amianan Marine Protected Area Network (AMPAN), marking a significant step toward strengthening marine biodiversity conservation and the sustainable management of coastal resources.

The agreement provides a framework for cooperation among local government units, national government agencies, and other stakeholders in managing interconnected marine protected areas in the coastal municipalities of Pagudpud, Bangui, Burgos, and Pasuquin.

“The initiative aims to improve the protection of coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangrove forests, and critical fish habitats while promoting the sustainable use of marine resources,” senior ecosystems management specialist Ariel Arizabal of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources said during the deliberation on Draft Provincial Resolution 2026-05-167, authorizing Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos to enter into a MOA with the DENR and other partner agencies in support of the establishment and operationalization of the AMPAN.

Arizabal said establishing the network would enhance coordination in conservation efforts, strengthen law enforcement against illegal fishing and other destructive activities, and improve the resilience of coastal ecosystems to climate change and environmental degradation.

The network is also expected to support the livelihood of coastal communities by helping restore fish populations and ensuring the long-term sustainability of fisheries.

Backing this move, environment program officer Joegie Jimenez said in an interview on Tuesday that healthy marine ecosystems are essential to food security, tourism, and the local economy.

“During my time as former federated president of the Philippine Councilors League, we have enacted measures on the establishment of fish sanctuaries, and after five years, its impact has been felt by local fishermen because their catch improved,” he said, adding that the initiative will be further boosted by the MPAN.

The approved MOA, which was certified as urgent by the governor, encourages collaboration in marine resource monitoring, environmental education, capacity-building, and the implementation of science-based conservation strategies.

This also involves the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police Regional Maritime Group, Philippine Navy, Mariano Marcos State University, and the four local government units that are covered by sharing expertise and resources.

It also promotes active participation by fishing communities, people’s organizations, and other stakeholders in protecting coastal and marine resources.

Araneta-Marcos, meanwhile, thanked the board for its approval, describing it as a milestone in advancing environmental protection and sustainable coastal development.

She reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to working with partner institutions and communities to ensure the effective implementation of the AMPAN for the benefit of present and future generations.

Currently, there are 11 fish sanctuaries in the province. Since 2013, at least three marine protected areas along the 150-km. coastline in the municipalities of Currimao, Badoc, and Paoay had been adopted by the Maritime Group (MG) of the PNP. (PNA)